SOUND CHECK: Cats and the Fiddler take last musical prowl in Livonia, Howell, Hartland

By GARY GRAFF

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

It's down to three and counting for Cats and the Fiddler, the teen acoustic music trio from Milford.

The troupe's concert today/Friday, Dec. 14, at the Trinity House Theater in Livonia will kick off a farewell run of shows for the troupe, whose members -- fiddler/guitarist Carmen Gibes and twins Shaun (mandolin) and James (bass) Richardson -- all turn 18 and graduate from high school next year. Gibes and James Richardson are planning to attend college, while Shaun Richardson is thinking about pursuing music full-time.

During its 12 years together the trio has released four recordings, won the Meijer Kid Talent Quest in 2005, the Elderly Instruments Battle of the High School Bands contest in 2008 and the Huron Valley's Got Talent in 2009. It also showcased for the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) in 2009.

Cats and the Fiddler perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15 at the Trinity House Theatre, 38840 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia. Tickets are $15 general public, $12 for subscribers. Call 734-464-6302 or visit www.trinityhousetheater.org. The group also has shows booked for Feb. 1 at the Howell Opera House and April 20 at the Hartland Music Hall. Visit catsandthefiddler.com for more information.